Flint is accustomed to giving outsiders new ways to view the city, but a social enterprise could help everyone see the community even more clearly. Genusee Eyewear takes recycled plastic bottles and converts them into glasses. Addressing vision needs in an environmentally beneficial way is at the heart of the project.

A Kickstarter fundraising campaign for the first prototype of eyeglasses, which equate to about 15 recycled bottles per pair, aims to raise $50,000 by May 18. “The Roeper” is described by Genusee’s leaders as a style of frame that complements different facial shapes, and can be worn with or without prescriptions.

“Genusee was founded out of the simple desire to do good for people and the planet by bringing a new manufacturing legacy to the city of Flint,” says co-founder Ali Rose.

With the goal to create its line while generating jobs, the Genusee campaign seeks funding to develop the product and move it into the retail market. All lenses will be anti-reflective and ultra-violet protective, with additional filters and specifications available.

Fit Flint is also using recycled plastic bottles. It is to turning them into clothing and creating jobs. Click here for that story.